we have an understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

'we have an understanding' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an arrangement, agreement, or agreement between two or more parties. For example: "We have an understanding that we'll never talk about the incident again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If we have an understanding of other people, or try to understand them and ourselves, it might help a bit".

The Guardian - Arts

Now we have an understanding.

The New Yorker

We have an understanding.

The New York Times

Do we have an understanding?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We have an understanding on it.

The New York Times - Sports

"We have an understanding of each others lifestyles," he said.

The New York Times

"We have an understanding that I won't personally criticize him.

The New York Times

"We have an understanding and both have similar visual tastes".

The New York Times

I think it's obviously very important that we have an understanding of Islam, a better understanding.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We have an understanding of this stuff: I have a little black grandson without a father".

The New York Times

"But I'm going to do what works, and we have an understanding of what works".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we have an understanding" to clearly communicate that an agreement or mutual comprehension exists between parties. It's useful in both formal and informal settings to establish expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "we have an understanding" when simply implying knowledge of a subject. This phrase specifically indicates an agreement or a mutual comprehension of terms or conditions. If you only want to mean knowlege or skill at something, rephrase by using terms such as "we have knowledge" or "we know".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have an understanding" functions as a statement of agreement or mutual comprehension. It establishes that there is a shared understanding between parties, often implying a prior discussion or negotiation. As Ludwig AI says, it is correct to use it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we have an understanding" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a mutual agreement or comprehension between two or more parties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for use in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, but also used in scientific and business contexts, it serves to assure others that there's a shared agreement or common ground. While it can often be used interchangeably with "we have an agreement", the latter suggests a more formal arrangement. When using this phrase, be sure that your intention is to imply some sort of agreement and not just knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we've reached an agreement

This emphasizes the act of coming to an understanding, highlighting the conclusion of a negotiation or discussion.

we're in agreement

This is a more formal and direct way of stating that there is a mutual understanding.

we're on the same page

This alternative conveys a similar meaning of shared understanding or agreement, but is more informal.

we have a deal

This implies a more concrete agreement, often used in business contexts.

we've come to terms

Similar to reaching an agreement, but often implies a compromise was necessary.

we see eye to eye

This alternative suggests a complete agreement in opinion or viewpoint.

we have a consensus

This indicates that everyone involved agrees on a particular decision or viewpoint.

we are in accord

This suggests a formal agreement or harmony in opinion.

we're aligned

This suggests that goals, strategies, or interests are in harmony.

we concur

A more formal way of saying we agree or are in agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "we have an understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "we have an understanding" to indicate a mutual agreement or arrangement between parties. For example, "We have an understanding that we will not disclose this information to anyone".

What's the difference between "we have an understanding" and "we have an agreement"?

While similar, "we have an understanding" implies a possibly informal or implicit agreement, whereas "we have an agreement" suggests a more formal or explicit arrangement. The sentence "we have an agreement" typically suggests something more concrete.

What can I say instead of "we have an understanding"?

You can use alternatives like "we're on the same page", "we've reached an agreement", or "we are in accord" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to formalize an "understanding" with a written agreement?

Not always, but formalizing an understanding with a written agreement can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure clarity, especially in business or legal contexts. An informal "we have an understanding" can be enough in personal situations.